Woman, 65, attacked with knife and robbed

The woman was attacked Wednesday afternoon in the 6500 block of 36th Avenue Northeast. (Google Maps)

A 65-year-old woman was attacked with a knife and had her purse stolen Wednesday afternoon in Seattle, police said, and the suspect is on the run.

Shortly before 3 p.m., police responded to the 6500 block of 36th Avenue Northeast where the 65-year-old was attacked after getting off a bus. She was walking north on the east side of the street when the attacker, wearing a black mask, approached from behind. He also wore a black hooded sweatshirt and jeans, police said.

“The suspect forcefully grabbed the victim’s purse in an attempt to steal it,” Detective Jeff Kappel said in a statement. “As the victim attempted to retain her purse the suspect pulled out a knife and cut the purse straps and in doing so cut the victim’s hand. The suspect fled the scene on foot with the victim’s purse, running northbound on 36th Avenue Northeast and then westbound on Northeast 68th Street.”

Police searched the area, but found no leads. Medics treated the woman at the scene for her non-life-threatening injuries, and a patrol officer later drove the woman home.

The suspect is in his 20s, 5-foot-9 and roughly 150 pounds. Police said his race is unknown. Anyone with information is asked to call 911 and refer to the incident. Detectives said anonymous tips are welcome.